- Author: Lanie Keystone
If you're as crazy about those “fried egg, crepe-paper-looking flowers as I am, then you're in heaven this spring in Solano County! I'm talking about the incredible California Native, the Matilija poppy—Romneya coulteri—the giant of them all in the poppy family. The blooms are bright, bold and as big as a salad plate—and because of their bright white and yellow color they come by their nickname of “fried egg plant” honestly. And, mine are blooming right now!
Matilija poppy is native to chaparral and coastal sage scrub habitats, primarily from Santa Barbara County into Baja and San Diego County. They form multiple upright stalks, 6 to 8 feet tall with fringed blue-green leaves. About two weeks ago we could see the beginning of the bloom explosion when the tip of each stalk developed a marble to walnut-sized bud. Typically these amazing flowers begin
a-poppin' toward the end of May—this year at they're at least 3 weeks early. They keep blooming right into the summer.
They can get a bit tricky to plant, so be careful to plant them without disturbing the roots. Starting one from a one gallon can is an easy size to plant without injuring the roots. They're happiest being planted in fall or winter in full sun with well-draining soil. However, I've had success growing them in our famous Vacaville clay,…they just take a little longer to take off.
Water during dry periods to keep the roots damp. Once they're established, after one or two years, just sit back, enjoy, and forget the watering…they are wonderfully drought tolerant. Important: These beauties need “elbow room”, so mind where you plant them. They do great on slopes and other places where they can stretch out and put on their spectacular show. Aren't we lucky to live in California?!